Essential Knowledge: 10 Pillars of PRINCE2 Principles

Essential Knowledge: 10 Pillars of PRINCE2 Principles

PRINCE2 is a widely recognized project management methodology that offers a structured approach to managing projects effectively. At the core of PRINCE2 are its seven principles, which provide a foundation for successful project management. These principles are essential knowledge for anyone working in project management, as they guide practitioners on how to approach and manage projects in a systematic and efficient manner.


The 10 Pillars of PRINCE2 Principles are derived from these seven principles and serve as a set of guidelines for project managers to follow when implementing PRINCE2 in their projects. These pillars include:




  1. Continued business justification: Projects should be aligned with the organizations objectives and provide value throughout their lifecycle.




  2. Learn from experience: Lessons should be captured and applied to improve future projects.


    PRINCE2 Principles vs. Agile Methodology: A Comparative Analysis .


  3. Defined roles and responsibilities: Clear roles and responsibilities should be assigned to individuals involved in the project.




  4. Manage by stages: Projects should be broken down into manageable stages, with reviews conducted at the end of each stage to assess progress.




  5. Manage by exception: Project managers should focus on managing exceptions and only escalate issues to higher levels when necessary.




  6. Focus on products: Projects should be focused on delivering tangible products that meet the needs of the stakeholders.




  7. Tailor to suit the project environment: PRINCE2 should be tailored to suit the specific needs and characteristics of each project.




  8. Define what a project is: Projects should have defined objectives, scope, and deliverables.




  9. Manage project risk: Risks should be identified, assessed, and managed throughout the project lifecycle.




  10. Manage project quality: Quality should be monitored and ensured throughout the project to deliver products that meet the required standards.




By understanding and applying these principles, project managers can improve the success rate of their projects and deliver value to their organizations. The 10 Pillars of PRINCE2 Principles provide a comprehensive framework for managing projects effectively and efficiently, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of stakeholders.